What to Do If Your Dog Keeps Shaking His Head and Scratching His Ear
Frequent head shaking and ear scratching in dogs can indicate ear issues that require attention. Understanding the root causes and providing appropriate care can prevent discomfort and long-term complications.
Why Dogs Shake Their Heads and Scratch Their Ears
Dogs may shake their heads and scratch their ears due to:
- Ear infections caused by bacteria or yeast
- Ear mites infesting the ear canal
- Wax buildup and debris accumulation
- Moisture retention from swimming or baths
- Foreign objects like grass seeds or insects
Floppy-eared dogs and those that swim often are more susceptible. Moisture gets trapped in the ear canal, creating the ideal breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.
How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s Ears?
The frequency of cleaning depends on your dog’s breed, activity level, and current ear health:
- Monthly for most dogs
- Weekly for dogs prone to infections or with floppy ears
- After swimming or bathing
- Whenever you notice debris, odor, or wax buildup
Safe Ear Cleaning Methods
Follow these steps to clean your dog’s ears safely:
- Lift your dog’s ear flap to straighten the ear canal.
- Use a vet-approved ear cleaner or natural oil like almond oil (with vet guidance).
- Apply the cleaner using a plastic or glass dropper.
- Massage the base of the ear gently for 20–30 seconds.
- Let your dog shake their head.
- Wipe the outer ear with a clean cotton pad or soft cloth—never insert anything deep into the ear canal.
Products to Consider
Always choose products formulated specifically for dogs. Examples include:
- Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser – non-irritating, helps control odor
- Zymox Enzymatic Wipes & Solution – gentle and enzymatic
- Vetnique Oticbliss – medicated for antimicrobial action
- Vetoquinol Ear Cleaning Solution – addresses bacterial and fungal buildup
- MalAcetic Otic Cleanser – ideal for minor infections
- TrizUltra+Keto Flush – antimicrobial, use under vet supervision
Wipes are great for surface cleaning, while liquid solutions are better for deeper ear canal cleaning.
Natural Cleaning Options
For healthy ears, a vinegar rinse made of one part apple cider vinegar to two parts water can be used. Avoid products with alcohol unless specially formulated for pets.
When to See a Veterinarian
Consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen. Signs include:
- Persistent scratching or shaking
- Odor or discharge
- Redness or swelling
- Sensitivity or signs of pain
Never use medicated ear drops without veterinary approval. Conditions like ear mites require proper diagnosis and treatment, particularly as they can spread between pets.
Best Practices for Maintaining Healthy Ears
- Inspect ears during grooming sessions
- Use only vet-approved or pet-formulated products
- Clean after swimming or when dirty
- Avoid deep insertion and never use cotton swabs
- Reward your dog with a treat and praise after cleaning
Conclusion
Proper ear care starts with vigilance and consistency. By using safe techniques and appropriate products, you can reduce the risk of infection and help your dog maintain healthy, comfortable ears. Always contact your vet when in doubt to ensure the best care for your pet.
